Balsam Tree

Colophospermum mopane

Native to:
Angola, Botswana, Caprivi Strip, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Zambia, Zimbabwe

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Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Fabaceae
Genus:
Colophospermum
Species:
Colophospermum mopane
USDA Symbol:
COMO14

Growth Characteristics

Height:
1800 cm
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Drought Tolerance:
High
Bloom Months:
jan,feb,dec
Bloom Colors:
green, yellow

Reported Fauna Sightings

Hummingbirds: Ruby-throated Hummingbird (Archilochus colubris)

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:
elephants, browsers, birds, insects
Fragrant:
Yes
Fire Ecology:
Fire adapted — tolerates or benefits from fire
Fire Notes:
Resprouts vigorously from the base after fire damage. Fire is a natural component of mopane woodland ecosystems.

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
poor, sandy, well-drained soil
pH:
5.5 - 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
dry to moderate
Notes:
Thrives in arid and semi-arid regions

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:
None required
Germination Time:
7–21 days
Notes:
Seeds germinate readily without pretreatment when fresh. Soaking in water for 24 hours may improve germination rates.

The above propagation data sourced from Claude AI